Letter of Robert Burns to Robert Graham dated Ellisland 23 Sept 1788

Letter of Robert Burns to Robert Graham dated Ellisland 23 Sept 1788 (page 3 of 3)

Introduction:

A three page letter in which Burns makes an effusive reply to Robert Graham's favourable response to his letter of 10th September. He also reiterates his wish to obtain an Excise Division position by the following summer and suggests a wider alternative to his earlier plan. (letter No 273).

Image Rights Holder:

National Trust for Scotland

Ref:

BMT173.03C

Project:

618:The Burns Manuscripts at Alloway

What:

Letter of Robert Burns to Robert Graham dated Ellisland 23 Sept 1788

Subject:

He admits however this would be more inconvenient for him and reminds Graham that in his opinion, Smith would not be financially embarrassed, being 'a wealthy Son of good-fortune'.

Who:

Robert Burns (1759-1796) (author)

Robert Graham, 12th Laird of Fintry (1749-1815) (friend and patron of Burns)

When:

23rd September 1788 (when written)

Where:

The Robert Burns Birthplace Museum, South Ayrshire

Background:

He admits however this would be more inconvenient for him and reminds Graham that in his opinion, Smith would not be financially embarrassed, being 'a wealthy Son of good-fortune'.

Description:

Page three is where Burns gets round to his alternative suggestion by which a vacancy could be made for him in the Excise. This time he suggests that since his farm is only five miles from Dumfries perhaps one of the several Dumfries Division Officers could be removed with more propriety than the local chap Smith whom he had suggested earlier.